Observation of Platanthera bifolia at Puig del Far, Osona

During our route to Puig del Far, in the Osona region, we had the pleasure of encountering numerous specimens of Platanthera bifolia, commonly known as the Lesser Butterfly-orchid. This delicate terrestrial orchid, distinguished by its two characteristic large basal leaves and its cylindrical floral spike of white or greenish-white flowers, was found in very good flowering condition for most of the observed individuals.

Its presence is typical of meadows and woodland clearings in montane stages, where it flowers during the summer and, during the nights, emits a sweet fragrance to attract its pollinators. In addition to the individuals we could observe up close, it is noteworthy that we spotted many more flowering specimens from the vehicle while driving along the road, indicating a robust population in the area. This discovery during peak flowering season highlights the importance of these habitats for the conservation of this Palaearctic orchid.